The department has mapped out a series of test purchasing exercises throughout 2007/08 targeting alcohol, cigarettes and fireworks.

During 2006/07, Trading Standards officers carried out six similar operations.

A total of 57 premises were visited in relation to the underage sale of alcohol, cigarettes and fireworks.

Following these operations, nine fixed penalty notices and nine police cautions were issued to traders and four premises have been considered for licence review.

Trading Standards is also planning to develop further the Knock Back scheme during the new financial year.

The Knock Back initiative was first set up in December, 2004 in conjunction with Liverpool and Sefton Trading Standards and Merseyside Police.

Packs were issued to off licences, mini markets, supermarkets and general stores which sell alcoholic drinks giving advice on how to prevent sales of alcohol to under 18s.

A similar pack has since been launched for staff at pubs, clubs and restaurants.

It includes training booklets, window stickers of the 'KB' logo, posters, fact sheets, advice for door staff, adopting a ‘think 21’ policy, beer mats promoting the scheme and a staff test and answer sheet for licensees.

Trading Standards manager, Andrew Naisbitt, said: "Products like tobacco, fireworks, solvents and alcohol are age-restricted because they are believed to be harmful if purchased and used or misused by people under a certain age.

"By enforcing such age related sales legislation and working with our many partners, we can help protect the health and well being of young people in the borough.

"Sefton is committed to stamping out the illegal sales of goods to minors and will prosecute traders caught doing this.

“It is hoped the proposed enforcement programme for the coming financial year along with developing the Knock Back scheme will help achieve this."